One of the best parts of moving into a new apartment is inviting all your friends and family to a housewarming party! But now that you’re in a new, shared community space, there are a few extra things to consider aside from hors d’oeuvre and party games. Here’s where we would start.

Start off on the right foot by being considerate of your new neighbors. One option is to give them a quick heads-up that you’ll be having a few guests over. Let them know the date and time so they won’t be alarmed if there’s some extra noise or commotion. And if you feel like it could be a good connection, you can always invite them to join you.  
 

Be mindful of music and noise. Not only is a good playlist vital to a successful party, but when you live in an apartment community, so is the content of the music and the noise. Make sure the profanities are limited, and that the message of your music is appropriate for any and all audiences who may hear it. Also, keep an eye (or ear) on the volume. While your neighbors are fine with mild noise, it's best not to test the limits by blasting your speaker at full volume. 
 

Be intentional with your guest list. Overcrowding can be a safety concern, so the size of your apartment should determine how many people you can invite. Alternatively, you could host a couple of housewarming parties and invite certain groups of people on different days. You just want to be mindful of giving your guests enough space to mingle and enjoy themselves.  
 

Add alternative seating. Consider bringing in alternative seating, like stools, pillows, ottomans, and other functional seating for your guests. 
 

Stock up on supplies. Nothing is more unfortunate at a housewarming party than running out of toilet paper, food, and other essentials. Be sure to have enough supplies, so you’re not caught off guard on the day. 
 

Set a firm end time. This is especially important if your apartment community has firm quiet hours. This will also help you to make sure all of your guests leave in a timely manner and give you time to clear your home after they leave. Plus, it’s another way to be considerate to your neighbors.
 

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to host a great housewarming party and keep the other members of your apartment community happy. Happy housewarming!

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You’re about to embark on a well-deserved trip. Everything on your to-do list is complete, except 

for how to prepare your rental while you’re away on vacation. In today’s blog, we’ll walk you through some important steps to complete before you depart.

1. Let your landlord know you’ll be leaving your apartment for an extended period of time.

Depending on your lease agreement, this could be mandatory. Letting your landlord know you’ll be gone is a courtesy to them and could be helpful if any building emergencies occur while you are away. 

2. Set your thermostat.

It’s important to check your lease agreement to see if your landlord requires the thermostat to be set at a minimum temperature while you are away. Some places require the temperature to be set to at least 55 degrees, especially if you live in a cold-weather climate.

If your lease agreement doesn’t specify a required temperature, set it to a temperature that is appropriate so you’re not wasting energy when there are no people in your apartment. Plus, this could save you some money!

3. Clean out your refrigerator/pantry.

Depending on how long you’ll be away, you’ll want to make sure that you aren’t coming home to spoiled food. Take a quick scan of your cabinets and refrigerator and toss anything that has the potential to go bad.

4. Tidy up.

After your travels, you won’t want to return to a messy, dirty, or cluttered space. Take the extra time to deep clean your living space so you can continue relaxing when you come back.

5. Ensure your safety.

Before you take those final steps out the door, make sure everything is properly locked, shut down, or unplugged. Be mindful of windows and doors. Turn off and unplug any appliances or cords that aren’t necessary to reduce the risk of fire and save on energy. And we also recommend not announcing your vacation plans publicly. 

By following this list, you’ll have peace of mind on your trip knowing that everything is taken care of at home. Safe travels!

The post What You Should Do With Your Rental When You’re On Vacation appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

So you’re thinking about renting! Maybe you’re just starting to look, or maybe you’re about to move in. Wherever you are on your journey, it’s really important to consider purchasing renters insurance. In fact, you may be required to purchase renters insurance before you move in. This not only ensures that you, personally, are covered but also adds an extra layer of protection for the owner. It’s also important to note that you may be required to purchase liability insurance as well. Similar to renters insurance, it adds an extra layer of protection for the owner in the case of negligence or irresponsibility of the resident. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is renter’s insurance?

Your landlord has their own separate insurance policy covering the building itself, but in terms of you, the tenant, their insurance policy may not cover your personal belongings, loss or destruction in the event of peril, burglary, or personal injury on the property. Purchasing your own renters insurance policy will protect your belongings in the event of a mishap. 

Consider an event like a fire. While the landlord has insurance to protect the cost of the building, that insurance will not cover the cost of your personal belongings. Renters insurance will likely reimburse you for those items, either in the form of replacement or equivalent cash value. 

In addition to covering your personal belongings, your renters insurance may also cover costs like hotel bills, if your rental space is deemed unsafe to inhabit. This could save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in expenses. 

Moreover, in the unfortunate event that someone is visiting you at your rental property and they get injured, your renters insurance may also cover the medical bills or any associated costs regarding the accident.

Why do you need renters insurance?

In some cases, you may not think your personal belongings are worth that much or hold that much value. But when you think about all the electronics, furniture, appliances, etc., you own and fill your space with, it could easily add up to thousands of dollars. No one hopes that a disaster or tragic incident will strike, but it’s best to be prepared in the event that it does.

How much does it cost?

Renters insurance is extremely cost-effective. A survey by the Insurance Information Institute found that the average annual premium for renters insurance is less than $200. Compare that to the damages you could incur from losing what you own, and it’s truly a no-brainer. 

What it really comes down to is risk management, and ultimately, renters insurance benefits both the tenant and the landlord. It ensures your belongings are protected and that you aren’t liable for financial expenses should an event occur beyond your control. 

Ultimately, we recommend that you do your research, reach out to your landlord, and then find a policy that works for you!

The post What is Renter’s Insurance and Why Do You Need It? appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a timely reminder that caring for your mental well-being starts in the spaces you spend the most time. While routines, relationships, and support systems all play an important role, your home environment can have a powerful impact on how you feel day to day.

Creating a space that feels calm, comfortable, and supportive doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference, especially during more challenging seasons. If you’re looking for simple ways to create a home that supports your mental health, here are a few practical tips to help you get started.

Create a nook in your apartment home. 

This area can include inspirational books, grounding tools like electric candles and other sensory items, journals with your favorite pens, and blankets and pillows to make you feel comfortable. You can use this spot as your at-home getaway or a cove for unwinding – but it should serve as a designated space for you and your well-being. 

Add plants to your home. 

Did you know all of the benefits having plants in your apartment home brings to you? Having plants not only adds a great aesthetic to your apartment home, but it can help reduce stress, be therapeutic, and help you feel a sense of accomplishment. All things that can help you improve your mental health! Read more on this topic here. 

Take a 30-minute walk outside. 

According to Mental Health America, “research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression, and boost well-being.” Plus, this is a great way to get to know your community. Try to incorporate a window of time each day (weather permitting, of course!) to get outside and take a short walk, perhaps listening to your favorite songs or podcast. 

Spend time with friends and family. 

Your home plays an important role in how you connect with others. Whether you’re welcoming loved ones into your apartment or using your space to stay connected, those relationships matter. According to Mayo Clinic, strong social connections can boost happiness, strengthen your sense of belonging, and help reduce stress.

Treat yourself to self-care. 

Either at home or out, engaging in a self-care activity has been proven to “eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more,“ says the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. But remember, an act of self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant! Things like trying to get a full 8 hours of sleep or eating a balanced diet are just as much self-care as going to a spa. 

Take care of yourselves!

The post Tips to Improve Your Mental Health for Mental Health Awareness Week appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

In today’s world, so many more people are asking about how to be more environmentally conscious. We find this to be the case when we talk to people looking to rent, particularly in more urban areas. In some cases, buildings themselves will have special features that will contribute to the cause. One example is installing solar panels, such as at our Middleton Station, an apartment community in Middleton WI, where they utilize solar power to heat their hot water. However, there are so many ways that you can be more environmentally conscious at  a micro level within your rental home. Here are some ideas…

Limit your water consumption

Take a shower instead of a bath. Only turn on the shower when you are ready to get in. Wash your dishes by hand. There are so many ways to conserve water within your home.

Turn off the lights

This seems like such an obvious one…but when you live in an apartment, sometimes it’s easy to think about the smaller space and think that the additional power doesn’t matter. But if we had tenants at all 500 of our properties turning off their lights automatically, we would save so much power and stress on the environment. 

Turn off your power strips

If you are going away for the weekend, or even just leaving for a day at the office, take a moment to turn off your power strips.

Grow your own food

Utilize those balconies! You could have a couple of small plants in pots or we have even had tenants who created vertical planters out of pallets to grow their own herbs in. 

Recycle

Nearly all apartment communities have both a trash and recycling bin. Pick up a second garbage bin and separate your trash before taking it outside.

Overall, there are so many micro ways you can be more environmentally conscious. What ways do you try to be more environmentally friendly?

The post How To Be More Environmentally Friendly as a Renter appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

This week on the blog, we’re talking about compliance. There are many components to Property Management, from maintenance and leasing to resident services and financial oversight. One of the most important, yet least known, is our in-house Compliance Department. 

What is compliance, and why does it matter?

Compliance is the ongoing process of adhering to external laws, regulations, and industry standards, as well as internal policies and ethical codes. In property management, that means doing the application and re-certification processes correctly, which in turn keeps the property in good standing with those rules and funding sources.

So what do they do? 

Our in-house Compliance Department certifies income and expenses for all applicants and residents, ensuring program compliance with a variety of funding programs, including Rural Development, Section 42 Tax Credit, and HUD Programs, such as project-based Section 8 and HOME. 

This team of experts, headed by our Compliance Manager, includes credentialed Certified Occupancy Specialists (COS) and Spectrum Training Award Recipients (S.T.A.R). The WMC compliance department manages all aspects of the application and re-certification process to make sure we are doing things the right way. Their expertise ensures that we’re not just meeting standards, but we’re staying ahead of regulatory changes and industry best practices.

While much of their work happens behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in keeping our communities running smoothly. Thanks to the entire Compliance Department for all that you do! 

The post Compliance: Who Are They and Why Do We Need Them? appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

As winter starts to wind down in Wisconsin, it’s a great time to give your apartment a simple refresh. With plenty of cold days still ahead, many of us are spending more time indoors, and your home should be a place that feels comfortable, calm, and inviting. Before spring arrives, a little decluttering and light refreshing can make a big difference. Here’s where we would start!

Quick Declutters 

Start small by focusing on areas you use every day. Bathroom cabinets and bedroom nightstands are great places to begin, since they tend to collect clutter quickly. Dispose of any empty containers and move items you no longer use regularly to make room for the things you reach for most often. 

In your living area, clear off the coffee table and put away any holiday décor that may still be lingering. These are simple, quick projects you can tackle in short bursts—and they can make your space feel refreshed almost immediately.
 

Storage Solutions 

If you find you need a little extra storage after decluttering, there are several simple ways to make better use of the space you already have.

Doors are often overlooked as storage areas. Hooks or over-the-door racks work well for items like coats, light jackets, blankets, or towels. In the kitchen and bathroom, clear storage containers are helpful for organizing items you tend to have multiples of, so you can easily see what you already have and avoid buying more than you need.

If you have space under your bed, storage bins are a convenient option for holiday décor, extra bedding, or seasonal clothing. Keeping these items neatly stored and out of the way can make your home feel more open, organized, and comfortable.

Donate! 

If you come across items you no longer need, consider donating them or recycling them responsibly. There are many donation options available throughout Wisconsin, and your local Goodwill, The Salvation Army, local shelters, and nonprofits are great places to start. Donating gently used items helps support others in your community – and gives your belongings a second life.

As we wait for spring and spend more time indoors, even a small home refresh can make a big difference in how your space feels day to day.

The post Declutter for Spring: A Quick Refresh for Your Apartment appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

Moving into a new apartment can be both exciting and stressful. This week on the blog, we are sharing some essential tips to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Start Early and Plan Ahead

Begin planning your move well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Create a moving timeline, set deadlines for tasks, and make a checklist of everything you need to accomplish before moving day. Starting early will give you ample time to organize, pack, and tie up loose ends. Don’t forget to order your supplies, including boxes, tape, and bubble wrap for those fragile items. 

Declutter and Downsize

Take advantage of the fresh start! Sort through your possessions and donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need or use. Downsizing will save time and effort and reduce clutter in your new home.

Pack Strategically

Pack room by room and label boxes clearly with their contents and destination room. Use sturdy boxes for heavy items and cushion fragile items with packing material to prevent breakage. Pack essential items separately and keep them easily accessible for the first few days in your new home.

Keep an Essentials Box 

To avoid essential items going missing during your move and causing unnecessary stress, keep a box of essentials on hand. From chargers, toilet paper, and any documentation you don’t want to misplace. This is a great way to have everything you need when you need it!

Take Care of Administrative Tasks

Complete any necessary administrative tasks before moving day, such as updating your address with banks, insurance providers, and government agencies. Forward your mail to your new address and update your contact information to avoid service disruptions.

Take Pictures When You Move Out

After you complete a deep clean, take photos of the apartment you are leaving for your records. This way, both you and your management company know the condition it was in when you left. This can help avoid any unnecessary charges and get you as much of your security deposit back as possible.

Embrace the Fresh Start

Moving to a new rental property is an opportunity for a fresh start. Enjoy exploring your new neighborhood, decorating your new home, and making memories in a new environment. Approach your move with optimism and enthusiasm for the adventures that lie ahead.

Overall, moving can be stressful, but completing the steps above can help make it a smooth process. With time and preparation, moving can be an exciting experience! Share your moving tips in the comments below! 

The post Essential Moving Tips for Spring appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

Are you looking to brighten up your apartment for Valentine's Day? Whether you're celebrating solo, with friends, or with your significant other, there are plenty of fun and easy ways to decorate for the occasion.

Heartfelt Welcome at the Door

Let your guests feel the love right from the moment they walk up to your doorstep. Consider hanging a DIY heart-shaped wreath or a cute welcome mat to create a warm and inviting atmosphere before they even step inside. And why stop there? Add some fairy lights to make the entrance even more magical!

Get Warm and Cozy 

Transform the ambiance of your apartment with warm, soft lighting. Swap out bright bulbs for string or fairy lights to create a cozy, romantic vibe. And for an added touch of ambiance, scatter LED candles around your living space for a romantic glow without the worry of open flames. Add cozy vibes to the space with blankets and soft throws throughout the living area, as well as seasonal cushions that are both holiday-appropriate! 

Get Creative with Romantic Wall Art

Personalize your walls with DIY Valentine's Day artwork. Frame sentimental photos and love quotes, or even create a gallery wall featuring heart-themed prints. You can find free printables online or unleash your inner artist and make your own artwork for a fun activity. Get creative and let your walls do the talking!

DIY Heart Garland

Add a touch of charm to your apartment with a heart garland. Use colored paper, fabric scraps, or felt to create the hearts, then string them together with ribbon or twine. Hang the garland across windows, door frames, or even the mantel for a fun and festive touch. It's an easy and affordable way to add a fun and festive touch to any room.

Add a Touch of Nature 

Valentine's Day is a great time to bring colorful florals into your space. Classic roses are a traditional touch for the holiday, but you can also add greenery such as eucalyptus or even artificial florals for a longer-lasting touch.

Spread the Love with Notes

Express your affection throughout your apartment with handwritten notes or love letters. You can leave sweet messages on mirrors and windows or create a heart-shaped display with sticky notes on a wall. It's a heartfelt yet straightforward way to spread the love and make your home feel extra special.

This Valentine's Day, make your apartment a warm, inviting place to celebrate love in all its forms. Whether you spend the day alone or with loved ones, these simple touches will make your home feel extra special.

The post Decorating Your Apartment for Valentine’s Day appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

Super Bowl Sunday is undoubtedly the biggest day of the year for football. Whether you’re there for the game, the snacks, or the halftime show, use this checklist to throw a “winning” Super Bowl party.
 

Think Ahead: Make A Game Glan

Any good football team needs a game plan in order to succeed. Super Bowl party planning begins a while before the big game. First, think of who you’d like to invite. When creating the guest list, keep in mind their team loyalties. It’s going to be important to create an environment where everybody can have fun, regardless of team affiliation. 
 

Nourishment: Fuel Your Guests

Another essential part of your game plan is nourishment. Plan a menu that suits all of your guests’ food preferences, and create a grocery list of all the food and variety of drinks you need. Decide whether you’d like it to be a BYOB set-up or if you’re happy to provide it and make sure to tell your guests. Appetizers and snacks are essential for your party menu. Warm up some easy crowd-pleasers, such as wings, chicken tenders, or pigs in a blanket. If you plan on making entrees, try slow cooker recipes like pulled pork or macaroni and cheese that can stay warm for longer periods of time. Whatever you choose, make sure to plan ahead.
 

The Space: Lay Out The Playing Field

During the game, you and your guests need space to express your excitement without bumping into each other. Rearrange your furniture to make space and remove anything fragile to avoid any accidents. Make sure that your guests have enough seating space by adding pillows, folding chairs, or stools and plan to have a few well-placed trash cans nearby for your guests to discard their trash easily. If you have outdoor space, you could designate that area as a game-free zone where guests can gather to talk about something other than the game. The most important guest in your Super Bowl party is your TV, so make sure it's easy to see and a central part of the space.
 

The Vibe: Add Festive Decorations To Your Space

When it comes to decorating for a Super Bowl party, there are many options. You can use one team’s colors or incorporate both. You can put up more general football-themed decorations, like banners or a tablecloth that resembles a football field. You don’t have to go all out. There are plenty of inexpensive decorations available, including balloons, streamers, or tassel garlands.
 

Enjoy!

As a host, being prepared is the secret to enjoying the big game yourself. Following these guidelines will allow you to sit back, relax and ensure your guests feel right at home. What would you add to the mix?

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